Mountain Iron-Buhl went into the Class 1A state tournament averaging 81 points per game. But Rangers coach Jeff Buffetta said it’s defense that has dictated the Rangers’ success.

“Defense really sets the tone for us,” Buffetta said. “In practice, we devote as much time to defense as offense.”

The second-seeded Rangers (29-2), who average 22 steals per game, took control with their defense from the outset en route to a 70-37 victory on Thursday at Mariucci Arena.

The Rangers had 12 steals in the first half en route to a 43-15 halftime lead. Junior Chelsea Mason had 15 points and five steals in the first half to spark the Rangers.

Mason, who has surpassed 2,000 points for her career, finished with 25 points and six steals. Mya Buffetta added 12 points and Mary Burke contributed 11 points and five steals for the Rangers, who finished with 18 steals and shot 50 percent (11-of-22) from three-point range.

Alicia Ibarra scored 16 points to lead Sleepy Eye (28-3).

First report

Junior Chelsea Mason sparked Mountain Iron-Buhl to a 70-37 quarterfinal victory over Sleepy Eye at Mariucci Arena.

Mason, who has already surpassed 2,000 career points, had 25 points and six steals to lead the No. 2-seeded Rangers (29-2) past Sleepy Eye on Thursday at Williams Arena.

Mason had 15 points and five steals in the first half as the Rangers built a 43-15 halftime lead.

Alicia Ibarra scored 12 to lead Sleepy Eye (28-3).

Check back later for more on the game.